By Priya Singh
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Updated On: 08-Oct-2024 12:15 PM
Discover why the Mahindra Zeo is the perfect electric truck for last-mile deliveries in India, offering eco-friendly design, advanced features, and affordability.
India's rapidly growing e-commerce industry depends on last-mile delivery services to reach customers. As a result, there is a rising demand for efficient vehicles that improve delivery operations. To meet this demand, Mahindra has entered the electric commercial vehicle market with the launch of the ZEO 4W electric truck.
This launch marks a significant expansion of its Last Mile Mobility division and highlights Mahindra’s commitment to eco-friendly transportation solutions. Mahindra Last Mile Mobility, a part of Mahindra and Mahindra, has launched various three wheelers which are designed to improve the efficiency of logistics operations. Their newest addition, the Zeo electric small commercial vehicle, is built to provide the technology and performance that customers need.
The ZEO stands for "Zero Emission Option," adding to Mahindra’s diverse portfolio of vehicles powered by petrol, CNG, diesel, and electric fuels. The Mahindra e-Zeo is a small commercial vehicle designed to improve last-mile delivery operations.
It is based on the Jeeto Strong model, which has over 2 lakh satisfied customers across India. However, unlike the Jeeto, the electric Zeo runs on an electric powertrain with a practical range of 160 km. Built with an efficient 300-plus voltage architecture, Mahindra claims the e-Zeo will deliver high energy efficiency, ensuring profitability for its users.
The ZEO aims to compete with well known models like the Tata Ace EV. The e-Zeo will be available in two variants, V1 and V2, in both the pickup and delivery van categories. Starting at an affordable price of Rs 7.52 lakh (Ex-showroom) for the base model, it positions itself as a viable option for those considering electric commercial vehicles.
Mahindra provides ₹ 10 lakh accidental insurance coverage for drivers during the first three years, showing their commitment to customer safety. To further enhance its value, Mahindra offers a Battery as a Service (BaaS) program designed to lower operational costs for buyers. This program allows businesses to rent batteries, making them financially accessible.
The BaaS rental rate is set at Rs 2.25 per km, enabling potential buyers to manage expenses effectively. With just 5% self-equity, one can buy a Mahindra Zeo in India and pay the lowest leasing rental of Rs 15,999. Following the introduction of BaaS in passenger cars like as the MG Windsor EV, the Mahindra Zeo model marks the first time it has been implemented in the commercial vehicle industry.
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Financial and Warranty Support
Mahindra is committed to making the ZEO accessible to a wider audience by promoting various financing options. Mahindra LMM provides a battery guarantee of 7 years or 1.5 lakh km, and a vehicle warranty of 3 years or 1.25 lakh km, whichever comes first.
MLMML's Mahindra Safar service package includes two programs that aim to improve consumers' ownership experiences. The Safar receives roadside assistance, Express Service, and a basic Annual Maintenance Contract. In addition to the Safar's benefits, the Safar Plus includes extended vehicle warranty, Fleet-Connect, and other features.
Impressive Battery Options
The ZEO features two battery options: 18.4 kWh and 21.3 kWh, offering a real-world range of 160 km and a claimed ARAI range of 246 km, respectively. Charging convenience is a standout feature, with DC fast charging providing an additional 100 km of range in just 60 minutes. The ZEO also supports AC fast charging and home charging options, catering to various user needs.
Performance and Design
Performance-wise, the ZEO is powered by a single electric motor that delivers 40 bhp and 114 Nm of torque, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 60 km/h. It features vertical slats on the grille with blue accents that symbolize its eco-friendly nature. The exterior includes additional blue highlights, decals stating "ELECTRIC," and dual-tone wheel covers, making it visually appealing.
The cabin is designed to comfortably accommodate three occupants and boasts a load bed capable of supporting up to 765 kg. The ZEO’s functional design is complemented by features like halogen headlights and a single windshield wiper, ensuring clear visibility during drives.
Advanced Safety and Convenience
The ZEO electric truck also offers drive modes—Eco and Power—and a creep function, further highlighting its adaptability to different driving conditions. In line with Mahindra’s reputation for integrating advanced features, the ZEO is equipped with Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) and monitoring features.
These include forward collision warnings, headway monitoring, pedestrian collision alerts, lane departure warnings, driver fatigue alerts, and insights into driver behavior, enhancing safety and efficiency on the road.
NEMO Universe
The Mahindra ZEO comes equipped with the innovative NEMO telematics unit. Customers can access real-time data via the NEMO Driver or NEMO Fleet Management System apps to improve performance and efficiency.
Fleet managers can use it to monitor fleet performance, geofence, service management, and charge summary, among other things. Drivers can use the Driver app to find the nearest public charging hubs, nearest dealer, route planner, and service locator, among many other features.
The Mahindra Zeo stands out as a reliable and efficient electric small commercial vehicle (e-SCV) designed to meet the demands of urban transportation and delivery services.
If you're considering buying an electric vehicle (EV) for your business, the Mahindra Zeo offers several key benefits that make it a smart investment. From exceptional performance to intelligent features, this commercial vehicle has a lot to offer. Here’s why buying the Mahindra Zeo in India can be a right choice for you and your business.
Exceptional Performance
The Mahindra Zeo is powered by a 30 kW permanent magnet synchronous (PMS) motor that delivers a peak torque of 114 Nm. This motor ensures a consistent and strong performance, allowing the vehicle to handle various loads and terrain efficiently.
The Zeo also comes with high-capacity battery options, including 21.3 kWh and 18.4 kWh, which provide optimal power output for extended periods.
Longer Range
One of the most critical factors for any electric vehicle is its range, and the Mahindra Zeo excels in this segment. It offers an impressive range of up to 160 km* on a single charge, reducing the need for frequent recharging during the workday.
Additionally, the Zeo is equipped with an advanced energy regeneration system that recovers up to 20% of energy during braking, further boosting its efficiency and maximizing the vehicle's range.
Easy Drive
Mahindra Zeo is designed to be as comfortable as possible. The Mahindra Zeo features a spacious cabin that provides ample legroom and comfort for drivers, making long trips more bearable.
It also has an impressive 4.3-meter turning radius, which makes navigating tight spaces in busy urban areas much easier. Moreover, the Zeo boasts a 32% gradeability, which means it can easily tackle steep slopes, even when carrying heavy loads, offering smooth and controlled driving experiences in various conditions.
Low Cost of Ownership
One of the biggest advantages of owning the Mahindra Zeo is its low cost of ownership. Electric vehicles, in general, require less maintenance than traditional diesel or petrol vehicles, and the Zeo is no exception. With fewer moving parts, the chances of mechanical failure are lower, reducing maintenance costs.
The vehicle also has a payload capacity of 765 kg, allowing businesses to transport large amounts of goods in one trip, which increases efficiency. The cargo box is also spacious, offering 7.4 ft in length and 200 cubic feet of space, making it ideal for maximizing your business operations.
Advanced Technology
Technology plays an important role in enhancing the overall safety, efficiency, and management of the Mahindra Zeo. The Zeo is equipped with AIS038 compliance and an IP67-rated e-kit for enhanced durability, ensuring it remains safe and efficient in various environmental conditions.
An active liquid cooling system is also in place to improve energy efficiency. One of the standout technological features is the NEMO Universe, which allows for smart fleet management, real-time driver monitoring, and instant alerts.
Rugged Design for Tough Conditions
The Mahindra Zeo is built to withstand the rigors of demanding work environments. Its rugged design ensures reliability in various road and weather conditions, making it a durable option for businesses that operate on rough terrains.
With a wheelbase of 2500 mm and a ground clearance of 180 mm, the Zeo provides stability and toughness on uneven roads. Whether you’re driving on smooth city roads or handling rougher terrains in rural areas, the Zeo is built to last.
Intelligent Features for Enhanced Safety and Convenience
The Zeo offers a range of intelligent features that enhance both safety and convenience for drivers. One of these features is a smart gear shifter, which allows for seamless switching between different driving modes—Power and Economy—based on the current driving conditions and load.
Additionally, the Mahindra Zeo comes with a hill-hold assist feature that prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on steep inclines, ensuring safer driving. The vehicle also includes advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as forward collision warnings and lane departure assistance, further enhancing safety on the road.
Fast Charging Capabilities
Charging the Mahindra Zeo is fast and efficient, making it more convenient for businesses that need to minimize downtime. The vehicle supports DC fast charging, which can charge the battery from 0 to 80% in just 71 minutes.
For home charging, the Zeo offers AC fast charging, which takes approximately 3 hours to fully charge the battery. These fast charging options ensure that the vehicle is ready to go whenever you need it, reducing downtime and allowing for more efficient operations. Additionally, Mahindra provides a reliable charging network, making it easier to access charging points when on the road.
Years of Trust and Reliability
Mahindra is a trusted name in the Indian automotive industry, and the Zeo lives up to this legacy. The vehicle comes with a comprehensive warranty package, including a 3-year or 125,000 km* vehicle warranty and a 7-year or 150,000 km* battery warranty.
This warranty, backed by Mahindra’s wide service network of over 300 dealers and 850+ touchpoints, ensures that help is always nearby if you need it. This level of support and trust gives buyers peace of mind, knowing that they are investing in a reliable and durable vehicle.
Also Read: Best Electric Mini Trucks in India
CMV360 Says
The Mahindra Zeo is the best and latest option for businesses wanting to make deliveries easier and greener. It has an affordable price, a long-range, and useful features that make it special in the electric vehicle market. Mahindra also offers warranties and battery rental options, which add to its appeal. Choosing the Mahindra Zeo is a smart choice for saving money. Overall, it’s a powerful vehicle that suits the needs of today’s delivery services in India.
Frequently Asked Question’s
What is the Mahindra Zeo?
The Mahindra Zeo is an electric small commercial vehicle designed for last-mile deliveries, combining eco-friendliness with advanced features.
What battery options are available for the Mahindra Zeo?
The Mahindra Zeo offers two battery options: 18.4 kWh and 21.3 kWh, providing a range of up to 160 km.
What is the price of Mahindra Zeo in India?
The starting price of the Mahindra Zeo is Rs 7.52 lakh (Ex-showroom) for the base model.
What are the key features of the Mahindra Zeo?
Key features of the Mahindra Zeo include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), NEMO telematics, fast charging, and a rugged design.
What warranty does the Mahindra Zeo offer?
The Mahindra Zeo has a 3-year or 1.25 lakh km vehicle warranty and a 7-year or 1.5 lakh km battery warranty.
What is the Battery as a Service (BaaS) program for the Mahindra Zeo?
The BaaS program for the Mahindra Zeo allows users to rent batteries at Rs 2.25 per km, reducing upfront costs.
How long does charging take for the Mahindra Zeo?
The Mahindra Zeo's DC fast charging takes 71 minutes to reach 80%, while home charging takes about 3 hours.